MADagascar Disaster Needs Help - What I Think It Needs aka What I'd Like To See #3

Madagascar, the MAD Vanity Project as I've called it for the eight years since it caused the removal of six species of Primates from Our Zoo.  Then it went on to have a fence around it for as many years.  It went through many design changes that started with the site banner below.   

I don't remember reading the text portion, regarding the species set for the "center", as I later thought of Mongoose through my own research if endemic Mammals.  Additionally, before his arrival, it was even rumored that an enclosure for the Pygmy Hippo would be built there, even though the species is not from Madagascar.  It seemed additionally odd considering it was almost four years after that banner, and therefore begged the question, What happened to the actual Animals that were listed to have supposed to go there?  

This project has been a scramble of ideas and execution since day one.  The chaos and waste of funds is outrageous.   The Zoo needs a new point person for overseeing Projects.

First, absolutely no more obscene amounts of funds should be spent on this crazy project.  It needs to come together, and start looking cohesive in ways that can be done affordably and soon-ish.  Madagascar needs help, because left as, it definitely looks unfinished, and therefore failed.  My opinion is in no way reflective of the Fossa and Radiated Tortoises, both I enjoy, and am glad we have them.  I have no hate for their enclosures.  Overall my opinion is based on what I think this space could have been as a whole and for these species.   How it turned out, is not what I expected for $7+ Million.  The Fossa could have got that same enclosure for probably the tax on $7Mil, and the Tortoises could have continued to live at the ARC or joined the one living with the Sifaka.  More was probably spent on the Rent-A-Fence that went around the space for six years, than on anything else.  The Million Dollar Tree, no one needed.  Ever.  

Below is the complete layout.  Unfortunately, Google Maps has not been update since before any construction was done.

A BBQ Pit

B Lemur Aviaries

C Radiated Tortoises

D Unused Space

E Fossa

F Former Aye Aye

G Unused Indoor Space

H Former Tamarins

 I  Sifaka

Approaching the area from Mandrills.  There is no Madagascar signage from either side.  

Overhead view of the BBQ Pit, moving towards top right is Radiated Tortoises, and the Unused Space D.

Above is the Unused Space D, which is pretty sizeable, and could house a small Mammal, or Bird species.  It extends past utility box, to a decent sized area that could serve as a night quarters for whoever they might house in this space.  That said, the other day I noticed a good deal of Bamboo plants holding there.  I also heard of another area that is slated for a concentration of Bamboo.  Hopefully this space is not going to be used to grow food for an Animal we don't, and may never have.  Red Panda food, yes.  Prospective Panda food, no. 

Frankly, until this week, I didn't know what could be done with A, that BBQ Pit that they built there.  Supposedly built for Staff to bring Tortoises out for the public to interact with.  It has thankfully gone unused for that.   Horrible idea!

That said, until the last couple days, my only thought was if they could salvage the masonry work, I'd knock it down it and use the stones out in front of the Zoo, to line the front of the chain link perimeter fence, after removing that wooden fence and the broken down pillars.  Sorry, but that's what I think every time I see that crazy waste of money that has nothing to do with a Madagascar exhibit area.  And, apologies for bringing that broken down fence into this.   

All that BBQ Pit has provided is place for people to sit and have their lunch.  It's ridiculous and an eyesore.  It's been sitting there unused for what seems like over a year.  It needs to be used for something, for now, maybe have one of the Interpretive Ambassadors, giving talks a few times a day about What's Happening Today At Our Zoo.  I have another idea I'm going to sort out and possibly pitch, and that could also have a "talk" component in conjunction with it.  

Basically, it needs to be active with something Zoo related and a sandwich board stating the activities.  It just needs to make sense.  Not be a blob of bricks for people to flail about in.

So, this week I had an idea that finally made sense.  This area could be repurposed to house a Mammal or Bird species. Considering there is already a base (the Pit), adding stones to close the perimeter openings, filling the center in up to covering the seating area, and adding a containment barrier of netting above it, creating either a heightened enclosure for a mammal, or appropriate height for a Bird species.  Adding a wood fencing barrier similar to Tortoises, to mainly keep people back from netting but would also visually tie-in with Tortoises.  Only drawback is, if housing a Mammal, the night quarters would have to extend out, adjacent to the enclosure and that would look odd no matter where it was placed. Housing a Bird species if any, would seemingly work better since night quarters are small and usually incorporated into the enclosure.

After staring at the Pit, and thinking about the above idea,  I went over and took another photo of the Unused Space D.  

I've looked at it before but don't think I comprehended the size.  It seems almost the same topical size as the Pit, if not slightly bigger.  It can be built to also create a heightened space and most important has that extra space behind it that would seemingly be a better space for a night quarter.  Imagining a Mammal enclosure here, is visually more pleasing than in the Pit space.  As well, envisioning the flow for another Mammal species closer to the Fossa, and Tortoises, in what feels more like the front of the Madagascar area, seems more logical.  

Three years ago, I noted in a post the suggestion that the Zoo try to get a Mongoose or Fanaloka.   The Nashville Zoo had a birth of the later, a species I learned about when that birth happened the year prior.  In reading about the Fanaloka, and Mongoose, both endemic to Madagascar, I learned more.  The Fanaloka is nocturnal, so building an enclosure would probably require extra expenses.  Even if they reopened the nocturnal area that previously housed Aye-Aye, I don't think its big enough.  The Madagascar Ring-Tailed Vontsira, also called Mongoose, despite not being related to the Mongoose Family, is seemingly the best choice.  It's arboreal, making it perfect for a vertical enclosure.  Thing is, could be tough getting either, as both are rare, with reportedly only one Zoo holding each species.    

All of it obviously depends on their plans and as funding permits, even for small scale builds.  Hoping to one day see a Vontsira here, rounding out a trio of Animals in this area.  It would make a huge difference to the aesthetics of this project.

The photos above show two views of the Lemur Aviaries.  Top is from front side, taken from Lemur Boardwalk, the bottom is from  backside, now viewable from Madagascar, between Tortoises and the BBQ Pit.

The reason I'm including this enclosure of an existing exhibit, is because the Zoo wrote in one of their email Newsletters months ago, maybe even last year, that we were getting a breeding pair of Blue-Eyed Black Lemurs.  They also recently announced the arrival of a male and female of that same species.  I have not confirmed if the same pair or not.   In the original Newsletter mention, it noted that the breeding pair would be off-exhibit.  Basically, the public would never see them or their off-spring.   Myself and Members were not happy that babies would not be visible.

Not knowing if this breeding pair would be housed within the exhibit night quarters, with the other Lemurs in this area, or off exhibit at FCC, I looked at this view.   I thought, if they were housed in this area, maybe they could have them and offspring on limited view from the Madagascar side.  With the more recent notation that the new arrivals would be living in one of these aviaries, hopefully it's this one that is closest to Tortoises, and that there will be signage to call attention to the area, which would make it inclusive to the Madagascar side.

This photo shows the now empty former Tamarin housing. There are three enclosures, though I can't remember ever seeing the middle one viewable, but may have been in use as a route to night quarters.  While not part of the MAD teardown, both species of Tamarin (Pied and Emperor), and their Patas Monkey neighbors were transferred out.  Since then there have been Animals taken from other areas and randomly put here, even though in my opinion inappropriate housing, with the exception of the last Squirrel Monkey, a super senior who seemed to thrive there, until he was transferred to a Squirrel Monkey Sanctuary. 

I'd like to see this area back to housing at least one Tamarin Species, maybe using the whole run, if they are connected. They were fun to watch and popular.  I have not heard there is any issue with the enclosures, so again, not sure why they left to begin with, and not sure why they have not been acquired again.  Leaving this empty does not seem like the logical thing to do, especially with how Madagascar turned out, populating this area can only help the optics.

The above photo, shows the old Aye-Aye enclosure entrance. About where the partition is, is where the lower part of the Fossa enclosure starts.  You can see the door is still there.  As well one of the stabilization beams, is still painted with related species, including the Aye-Aye.

The three Aye-Aye were transferred out some time before Madagascar became a project.  I don't remember ever hearing there was an issue with the enclosure.   That said, considering the Aye-Aye are endemic to Madagascar, it's curious to me that this was never reopened (even if it needed repair work), and a featured part of this project.  I loved seeing the Aye-Ayes. Housing this Nocturnal species provided for a cool and different exhibit.  I think it would be an asset to the area.

When the Fossa enclosure was built, as I understand, it was going to house both Fossa (the male lives off exhibit at FCC). While I have seen the male, and would have liked to know him, thankfully, that didn't happen.  The enclosure size in my opinion, is barely enough for one.  Splitting it in half, as they would be housed separately, would be too small.  That said, night quarters were allegedly built in the building, with an access point visible from the lower part of the enclosure.   I've asked if the Aye-Aye exhibit is still intact, and it seemingly is.  If that is accurate, there should be a plan to reopen this exhibit, whether as a nocturnal enclosure, or not.  With Aye-Aye, or another species, like Tenrec (which I thought we already had?), not only to possibly bring back fan favorite Aye-Aye, but to have another actual Mammal from Madagascar in the Madagascar area.

This is the outside of the Unused Indoor space.  This space was previously used as a gift shop, but has been vacant since way before Madagascar.  

Looking inside, you can see it is a decent sized space, that has not been kept-up.  I took this recently, and curiously the Living Wall panel seems to still be alive, as opposed to few years ago, it had been neglected and looked brown and dry.  

I remembered hearing there was a roof issue.  I took this last week, and the roof indeed looks in bad shape.  Unfortunate, because I have what I think is a great idea for this space. 

Over ten years ago I had one of my best ideas.  I researched it and no other Zoo was doing it.  I've held on to that original idea ever since.   I told a couple people, and they agreed it's a good one.   I still hope to share it one day, but I still haven't let go of the need to be involved in seeing it to fruition.  That would have never happened while Tanya Peterson was still Director.

I've continued to hold it close, even though I shared it once, but in hindsight I don't remember or understand why I would have.  I pitched it to the former Deputy Director, suggesting this space.  He was interested, but I procrastinated in writing it out for him, and when I followed-up, he said this space was now going to be used for Malagasy (Madagascar)  Exhibit.  Some things work out as they should.  It would have been a horrible experience for me to have had this happen while Peterson was still at the helm, and therefore without me helping see the vision through.  Additionally, I thought of a better space, and will continue to hold on to it, unless a satisfying opportunity presents itself.  That said, this space, has sat vacant for eight+ years.

I shared the above, because the idea I have for this space, was born out if my original idea that I mentioned.   I think this is another original, and what I like most about it, is that it would create an interestingly positioned hub, that I think would pull the area together, and detract a bit from the lingering failure of other aspects of this project.  I'm going to check on the roof, and see if this space is usable.  Maybe I'll share this one, because the Madagascar area needs help desperately.   

I think adding another Mammal in the Unused Space, using the Pit for Zoo Happenings and other talks, and if my above idea for the Unused Indoor Space could come to fruition, it could finally pull together a fulfilled and cohesive feeling to this MAD area. 

Previous/Related Posts:

*That Part Two! - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/that-part-two-what-i-think-our-zoo.html

*Continuation Of... - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/continuation-of-what-i-think-our-zoo.html

Post showing stone work idea mentioned that could be done at that Perimeter Fence...

*Lordy Be, Can It Be? Do We Finally Have Management Who Cares About Our Zoo?

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2025/09/lordy-be-can-it-be-do-we-finally-have.html

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows. 

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooDirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison , #Gorillas , #Lemurs 

Continuation Of... - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

This post is the continuation of the previous post.

The blogger started typing slow, and not sure if that would affected reading scroll, so I decided to continue in a separate post.  Plus these posts are so long, having a break between is probably a good thing for anyone who's reading all my ramblings about things that probably won't ever get done.

Above is where I left off in the previous post.

Below is where I'm continuing.

The area showing N is the former Otter Pool, currently occupied by Western Pond Turtles.  The space O shows adjacent area with seemingly usable space.

I would like to see the return of Otters.  Sadly we lost the last Otter friend due to old age.  They are a popular species that people still ask about.

I've always thought this could be a larger enclosure.  There is space adjacent that seems usable.  I've always hated that drop to a lower pool.  I especially hate it for the Turtles that currently live there, even though I was assured it's not dangerous. I'd like to see a larger pool, improved night quarters and a good size landscaped land space.   

I love seeing the Turtles and want them to remain on exhibit.  I cover thoughts on another location, in the event something changes at old Otters.  That idea is at the end of the post.

The area shown for P and Q, is an in use enclosure and an unused space.  The enclosure labeled P is the current home for the Francois Langurs and Q is a small grass area adjacent to the backside of Langurs going north (across the path from Mandrills).  

This photo is taken at the corner of P/Q, and shows both sides.  Langurs on the left, the grass area on the right.

Expanded view of grass area, Mandrills across path in upper right corner.

I have long hated the Langur enclosure, which is a series of cages. It's archaic and there is nothing natural, only caging, cement floor, and no natural perching structures.  They have items for enrichment, so they are not lacking, but there is a definite Need for a better home, because this current set-up is bleak.

My thought is a redesign and combined use of the P/Q space. This photo is a closer look at the space.  It looks like it could fit two Monkey enclosures (Aviary style?) (in yellow) along the path, facing the Mandrills, or with one across corner, while still keeping existing tree intact. New night quarters (in blue) built behind in the space of the cages, knocking down the current night quarters, which would expand the space of Q.  If it could fit two enclosures, that would provide for another species of Monkey, which would benefit the collection as Monkeys are probably the most asked for Animal.  

The space R shows the former Eagle/Previous Patas Monkeys. This space has been vacant for near four years, with the exception of a briefly housing the Grey Fox.  Its massively overgrown and needs an occupant.  Many years ago I fantasized about a small group of Foxes freed from Fur Farms, being rescued by the Zoo.   In more recent times, after seeing our Grey Fox here, I thought this would be a good space.  Now, I'm not sure a public setting is a good thing for Animals that have come from that kind of situation.  

I was told years ago it can not house Monkeys open air like this anymore (?), and I do not see the Zoo spending money to net this space to again house Monkeys.  

That said, after seeing the massive (for their size) enclosure for the Radiated Tortoises at Madagascar, I immediately thought about new locations for the Aldabra Tortoises and subsequently the Galapagos Tortoises, after I witnessed a seemingly tight squeeze out the door from their current night quarters next to Pudu.  While I had been thinking of the Farm location space V, for the Aldabras, I thought of here for the Galapagos, or vice versa.  So, as I've more recently thought of a seemingly perfect place for the Galapagos, this leaves the thought of this space possibly for the Aldabras?  I'd love to see the Aldabras in R, the former Eagle/previous Patas Monkey enclosure.  It's huge, has great barriers, and would seemingly take little work (filling in perimeter ditches?), unless there is a night quarter issue (I know nothing about inside holding area here).  I also don't know if the plants are ok for them, or if it would need a huge landscaping redo.

Whatever the Zoo decides, I hope they decide it soon, because this is an unused seemingly ready enclosure.  If they don't go with moving the Tortoises here, I hope they can find another Species to occupy this enclosure, it's been empty too long, and it's a seemingly good enclosure.

The above space S/T is the site of Triple Grotto.  Should be familiar to regular readers as I've posted overhead mock-ups of what to do with this site many times.  The space labeled S currently houses Orangutans in North and Middle Grottos, and T is vacant South Grotto and adjacent large never used space.

No mock-up this time.  Just noting (again) this is a focal point of the Zoo.  When the Orangutans vacate it to move to the former Chimpanzees home, this huge site will be an eyesore, so the Zoo needs to start fundraising for it's redesign. That said, someone recently said something in conversation about this scenario that admittedly never crossed my mind.  I only zeroed in on Orangutans "moving".   The person assumed, the Orangutans would also have access to Triple Grotto. Whether this is something that is in the plan, until there is a definite plan for Triple Grotto construction, it should be.  This would solve the eyesore of a fence around the site, and it would allow for actual use of the skytrails as intended, even if not permanently.

In my opinion, the redesign of this site should have a large landscaped open air enclosure and new night quarter building, for the return if Chimpanzees.  A dayroom is optional, but a covered area in the yard area would give place for Chimps to escape inclement weather and still be on view.  I would like to see at least one, but there's probably room for two, Aviary style enclosures for Siamangs, and/or Gibbons in the southern area.  The later can be added afterward, as funds become available, and shouldn't be an issue to Chimps as new night quarter or dayroom wall could be a division that would dilute construction noise enough?  In my opinion a priority should be the return of Chimpanzees to Our Zoo.  

The U space shows the current Aldabra Tortoise enclosure.  If the Zoo is planning on keeping them for life, Ida and Earl need a bigger home.  They aren't called Giant Tortoises for nothing. This pair came to the Zoo what seemed like a bit larger than a paper plate, about the size of the Radiated Tortoises.  They have grown significantly, and will double in size over the next ten years.  These Friends are going to need a bigger home.  I've thought this for awhile, as I've watched them grow.  Their night quarters don't have much space, and in winter they spend a lot of time in there.  At some point, like the current Galapagos, the door is going to be a tight squeeze.  

After seeing the massive (for their size) enclosure for the Radiated Tortoises at Madagascar, I immediately thought about new locations for the Aldabras.  I wrote about one option for the Aldabras in the paragraphs covering location space R, which if appropriate would be my first choice.  It's not only ready made, but safer from public access.

The other thought is the space labeled V.  This space was a Duck Pond that was sadly filled in.  It became a fatal danger to Waterfowl that became victims of night predators.  That seemingly could have been fixed by building them night quarters?  I had fantasized that with night quarters and barrier it could be a pond for rescued Domestic Ducks that get abandoned in our parks.  Nothing has really come of this space.  It was tagged as a garden that would grow usable vegetation, but that seems to have failed, as it just looks like weeds now.  If the R location isn't appropriate, with decent barriers and a night house, maybe this could be a location for the Tortoises?  If so, my only issue would be making it a double barrier or something so public could not have close reach access to them.  People at the Farm always trying to touch them, and they would be unattended in this location. 

The W shows the space adjacent to the Sand Corral at the Farm.  It's located behind a fence, outside of public view.  I used to spend a lot of time at the Farm, and the Alpacas often spent their mornings in this back Grass Corral (Pasture), which is visible from the fencing that borders the parking lot (view in the above photo), and the fence by the women's restroom.  

It wasn't until Slider the Cow arrived near ten years ago, that this set-up really bothered me.  Why did that change?  He was left out there, sometimes all day, and at least half of all the other days, and he was alone.  After he finished eating and grazing, he stood staring at the fence, knowing the other Animals were on the other side.  How do I know this?  At the time I was visiting about three times a week.  I would go to the parking lot fence and talk to him, as too often that would be the only time I could see him.  Slider was one of my besties, and this broke my heart.  He needed to at least see Friends.  Slider needed a "Howdy Window".  I asked the Asst Curator if he could remove part of the fencing and make a full panel open so he could see out into the other area and not feel like he was alone.  The idea was immediately ok'd, but it took a year of reminding, for it to finally happen.  Slider was so happy!  His Donkey Friends came by as soon as they saw it, so it was enriching from both sides.

The Asst Curator liked it, and he expressed plans to expand it. Not long after I suggested taking out the whole fence line, so the whole Corral was openly visible to the public, and to enclose it with fencing from the parking lot side, so the employee work area was not in view.  Unfortunately, that expansion project never happened.  I bring it up again now, as the majority of the time the Mini-Horses are not viewable. They are either in back in the Grass Corral, or stuck in their night area.  I'd like to see the back Corral become front facing, making it inclusive to the area, and visible to the public.

Another thought I forgot to include at the start of this now very long post, is about the Western Pond Turtles.  In text about space N/O, I talked about the return if Otters, but what about the current Turtle occupants?   This is my thought.  Turtles are a big lifetime favorite of mine.  I had a beloved one my whole childhood to young adult.  So I love seeing them, and want them to stay on exhibit.  I also think it's important since they are a part of Our Zoo's hands-on Conservation efforts.  

This space above is the location currently called Amphibian Alley.  When it was repurposed from the former Komodo Terrarium, it was called California Conservation Corridor I think.  Once again renaming it by dropping California, this area can showcase and highlight the Conservation efforts, and do so by including the Western Pond Turtles (again)?  I think they were once on exhibit there in a small spaces no pool.

Now that they have been enjoying the large pool in former Otters, they should always have a good sized pool.  There is a sizable area outside the Alley, partially shown in the first photo, and expanded to show the whole space.  This is seemingly an ideal location for an enclosure.  Obviously a new build, that has the space to include a good size pool, and land space.  

Apologies for the length of these two posts.   Some of you know my mind has been in Fix Our Zoo mode for near fifteen years, when I fantasized about giving Wishbone the Andean Bear a soft surface enclosure, and building Our Chimpanzees a new home.

That said, I've now decided to do a third in the series that covers Madagascar.  

I realize some of my thoughts/ideas will be of no interest to many, but at least I got them out of my mind, and maybe something will be an option for the Zoo to explore.  It's happened before. 

That all said, Our Zoo has no money.  Since I am currently not a Multi-Millionaire, most of these ideas may not ever materialize.  In reality, it will be some time before we see any new builds.  I hope Our Zoo will soon start to see a turnaround and at the very least focus on filling empty enclosures.   A Zoo can't expect to attract repeat Visitors, and Our Zoo needs Visitor money.

Thank you to whoever read both parts of this long post.  Much appreciate it.  

Previous/Related Posts:

*That Part Two! - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/that-part-two-what-i-think-our-zoo.html

*MADagascar Disaster Needs Help - What I Think It Needs aka What I'd Like To See #3

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/madagascar-disaster-needs-help-what-i.html

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows. 

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooDirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison , #Gorillas , #Lemurs 

That Part Two! - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

Last week I crossed paths with a father at Black Rhino with his toddler.  The toddler was running to the empty Cat Grotto B, and the father called out to him,  "Let's see if the Tiger is there".  I just walked by and said,  " There is no Tiger".  Tigers, Monkeys, Otters, Hippo.  That's what Visitors are looking for. That's what people miss.  And Claudia.  We all miss Claudia.

For those who don't know my Zoo history, in brief, the Zoo has been a part of every year of my Sixty-Two year life.  From an infant visiting Story Land, through my teens going to a Nature Trail open-call.  Experiencing Giant Pandas, Golden Monkeys, the Mountain Lake Gator, Antoine Leblanc the white Alligator visiting from New Orleans, and celebrating the arrival of our Warthogs, African Lion Cubs, and the birth of Sumatran Tiger Triplets.  Enjoying Members Nights, Zoo Parent Days, and Members Morning Birthday events.  Visiting on the Holidays, including Christmas Day in 2007.  I took the last photo of Tatiana, at 2:48p.  She was happy, healthy, and lounging in the sun.  Two hours later she was gone.  After suffering a devastating loss in 2008, I sought solace in the Animals at the Zoo.  I befriended Keepers, and learned about these wonderful Beings who were giving me some joy during an otherwise excruciatingly sad time.  I further occupied my mind doing extensive research on all the Animals and the Zoo.  I became endeared in a way that I hadn't before.  I was also lucky to have my Enrichment Toy making idea embraced by the lead Big Cat Keeper, and spent ten months making toys and bringing joy to our three Tigers, four Lions, Snow Leopards and Fishing Cats, and on occasion our Bears.  The Cat Grottos came alive every Saturday, when the toys arrived.  Despite this time frame having a heavy cloud over Our Zoo, those first many years were some of the best of Zoo times.  

Again, I digressed a bit, even bringing tears to my eyes, thinking about those times.  Noting my history was not to be self-indulgent, but to describe a vibe that I think our Zoo needs to get back to. Times that not only had events that attracted an endeared and growing community, but had the Zoo filled with beloved Residents.  There were no empty Animal enclosures. Each one was someone's home.  Too much has changed.  So many lost species.  So many empty enclosures.  All caused by so much destruction by the former Director.  I want Our Zoo to have that vibe again, not just for myself, but for everyone.  I want everyone that comes to the Zoo to be happily fulfilled by what they see, and endeared to Our Animals and Our Zoo.  I believe it's vital to Our Zoo thriving into the future.

I've written many times about the need to build an endeared community, and the desperation for fundraising during the last eighteen years of neglect to both by the former Director. Both needed to keep Our Zoo thriving, and both go hand in hand with keeping the Animal Collection populated.  The Animals are the draw.  Not Art Installations, not Gardens.  Not Fantasies, not Dreams of Grandeur, not Wants over Needs.

The ideas that I personally think would be beneficial to the Collection and to the delight of our Zoo going public, is what I will share.  I've written about some of these things before, some in same form, some with changes.  Some of my ideas are firm, some are fluid.  I put a lot of thought into my ideas.  My thoughts are rooted in old Zoo Friends, some passed, some transferred out.  Ideas that have grown from empty enclosures, and visitors words.  Thoughts that take into consideration needs and funds.  There might be a some that because of current lack of funding are a future fantasy, but none an illogical Fantasy (EcoPark), or an irresponsible Want (Pandas).

The biggest upset to Our Zoo Animal Family came with the 2018 Madagascar vanity project.  We saw our Siamang (Ape), and six Monkey species transferred out.  We had already seen our Aye Aye leave, so this was an exodus of eight Primate species in relatively the same time frame.  In my opinion, the biggest fail, as "Monkeys" are historically the main attraction in Zoos.  We currently have two Monkey Species, the Mandrills and the Langurs, the later the only save from the Madagascar evictions.  So, Monkeys, are obviously among my top thoughts.

As noted above, thoughts about funding have been considered.  On one end, there's an enclosure that has sat empty since Our two Tigers were sent to San Diego, five years ago.  If it wasn't for the Panda holdout, it's Tiger ready.  At the other end, a huge funding issue will present itself when the Orangutans move out of the Triple Grotto site.  I'm concerned that it will sit vacant for years.  How that will not only look in a focal point of the Zoo, but to Visitors perspective of Our Zoo.

New homes for Galapagos and Aldabra Tortoises, and acquisitions of Tiger, Pygmy Hippo or Capybara,  are among my top immediate doable ideas.  Followed by the return of Otters, which would require some funding as an expansion is in order, then the Langur redesign, which would also allow for another species of Monkey.

In my opinion, these are some of my thoughts that should be a more obvious priority than Pandas, but also the reported plan to add in a second female Orangutan, and Gibbons to live with the current pair of Orangutans when they move from Triple Grotto to the Pachyderm enclosures.  I think letting our current pair settle into an appropriate home and develop a relationship and routine beyond what they were forced to mentally adapt to living first in the caged tubes, followed by in an outdated and inappropriate enclosure, would seem in their best interest.  I'm not a fan of bringing in a second female, and adding Gibbons to create a mixed Species group, is a fun idea, but with them having a breeding recommendation, I think a new permanent home and possibly a babie, seem like enough changes.  Maybe Gibbons should be a down the road Want. I've actually included them and/or Siamangs into every one of my Triple Grotto site redesign thoughts.

That all said, further thought notations will be included with photos.  This first one is of all the enclosures I will make note of.  Enlarged versions with text will follow in alphabetical order, not reflecting the order of priority.

A  Partial Vacant Space East of Tropical Building

B  Partial Vacant Space East of Tropical Building

C  Former Sea Lions

D  Current Black Bears

E  Current Wolves

F  Current Grizzly Grotto

G  Current Grizzly Gulch

H  Vacant Space North of Gulch

 I   Vacant Space South (Gate) of Former Hippo

J   Vacant Former Hippo  

K  Current Black Rhino

L  Current Snow Leopard x2

M Space Adjacent to Snow Leopard x2

N Current Turtles / Former Otters

O  Space South of Turtles

P  Current Langurs

Q  Garden Space North Adjacent to Langurs

R  Vacant Former Eagle/Previous Patas Monkeys

S Current Orangutans (Two Grottos+Nite House)

T Vacant Grotto+Space

U Current Aldabra Tortoises

V Vacant Former Pond, Filled In

W Existing In Use Farm Corral

This area, showing A, B, and C, needs attention.  The Sea Lion Pool (C) has been vacant for over six years.  I was sad when it was filled in.  Not only did it hold personal nostalgia, I liked that we had a place where non-releasable Marine Mammals could land if need be.  I miss our Silent Knight and Henry, and hearing their Barks throughout the Zoo.  That said, it's already been filled in, and allegedly due to the cost of repairs to the pipe system.  The Zoo first planned to build an Andean Condor enclosure there, then one for the Jaguar.  

My thoughts for this area, require funding for new builds. This thought is working off my previously stated feeling that we should have an enclosure for Mountain Lions, based on the too often non-releasable Cubs that come into human care.  I'd like to see the Zoo revisit the Jaguar design for Mountain Lions, in the space of C, and if more space needed moving into B.  I think building an available enclosure for this species is a necessity, as I fear at some point homes for these babies in Zoos will dry up and they will not be given the chance at life.

Forgot I also took some photos at the actual locations, so will be including them here as well.  The one above is of the A/B area.  The one below is of C.

If that were to happen, keeping with the flow of Western region Rescues, which would then be Mountain Lion, Black Bears, Grey Wolves, and Grizzly Bears, I'd like to see A and B be used for Condors.  If space for two Aviaries, A for Andean Condor, and B for California Condor.  The Andean would be the perfect segue way off the Tropical Building, and the California the perfect neighbor on one side, as the only other Condor species, and a state connection to the Mountain Lion on the other side.  If the A/B space can only fit one species, I would choose considering one factor.  Is it possible Claudia can come back to SF, after she ages out of the breeding program she was sent to Nashville to participate in?  If so, of course I'd want Andean.  If not, then California.  If so, and funding and space was available for both, I'd build and wait for Claudia to return.  

I realized after finishing most of this post, that I left out one of my main and immediately doable ideas.  It involves Claudia's former home at the Puente.  When I went to make an overhead of that space, I realized I could also include A/B and then thought about the Open Space between the two.  Not sure if that area is a viable option, I tend to think not, but if so, maybe an option for an Andean Condor Aviary, as it's across the path from Puente.  That said, I really only think we should have a Andean Condor again, if there's a chance Claudia could come back.  Note the only reason I'm showing alternate locations is because I was told the enclosure that Claudia was previously in at the Puente (indicated in red) had become no longer appropriate.

The idea that I almost forgot is in regard to Our Galapagos Tortoises.  After seeing the huge enclosure for the Radiated Tortoises in the Madagascar area, I immediately revisited my thoughts about new locations for the Aldabra Tortoises (which I cover more about in the next post) and subsequently the Galapagos Tortoises, after I witnessed a seemingly tight squeeze out the door from their night quarters in their current enclosure next to Pudu.  

When Condor Claudia left in early March, I wondered who would be the new occupants of her enclosure at the Puente. Then last month it hit me, her space is seemingly the perfect place for the Galapagos Tortoises.  Like with their current location my only concern would be if the night quarter door is large enough, but if needed, that seems like an easy alteration to make.  Last week, I asked someone about this idea, and they said it's been talked about!  Happy to hear my idea aligned with the Zoo's.  Hopefully it works out, I really like this space for them.

If this were to happen, maybe the Galapagos current space next to Pudu would work for Tica the Ocelot, providing they can landscape it to a level she would be comfortable with. Before the Tortoise thought for Puente, when I first heard Tica had been moved off exhibit, I thought about Claudia's space for her.  Then they showed her thriving off exhibit and I was happy to see that.  The space she's in at off exhibit area FCC, is landscaped in such a way, it appeared dense, with lots of hiding places.  I would hope a similar environment would have to be created for her to move back down to the main Zoo.  It would be nice to see her, but whatever's best for her.  That said, since originally writing this, I also learned that she and Dorian the male Fossa are neighbors at FCC and that is providing enrichment for both.  So, even though I'd like to see Tica again, it seems like her being at FCC is working out in everyone's best interest.  I mention this instead of just removing this idea altogether, because a couple years ago Tica participated in Artificial Insemination that didn't take.  If she is still in the Breeding Program, maybe we could get a male one day and that space could again be used for a small Cat species.

The areas of H and I have been vacant for many years, so far back that I can't even remember what Animals last occupied the northern part of H towards Grizzly Gulch.  Note the area of H is actually two large enclosure spaces.  Not sure why I didn't separate them.  The southern part was last occupied by Black Rhino.  I've shared my thoughts for this area before, starting with the idea that the space neighboring Grizzly Gulch could be turned into another Gulch type enclosure for the Black Bears.  Seeing them have a larger, natural home would be an enriching new adventure for them.  When Pandas came into play, I thought put Pandas there.  Seems like the logical place, but logic was not part of the plan.  Build for them and when we can no longer afford them or they get repossessed, the Black Bears could move in.  In my opinion that is the better idea rather than displacing Our Lions, ultimately losing them to another Zoo and destroying THEIR House.  For the southern side, I would someday like to see the return of Polar Bears, and to an enclosure that included underwater viewing. I researched the captive population and there doesn't seem to be that many in Zoo's, so not even sure they are obtainable.  As well, because of funding and other doables on the list, that would be a far off idea to entertain, but an enjoyable one for myself and the many others who I know miss Our Polar Girls.

The area of I, is located behind a closed path.  This area called South Gate, has been closed nearing fifteen years.  It used to house three species of Hoofstock, Black Buck, Muntjacs, and Yellow Back Duikers.  It runs along the west side of the path that is parallel to Skyline, across from the backside of the Therapy Horses.  It's south-west gate neighbors the former Hippo enclosure.  That said, as I have maintained since Nile Hippo Tucker was transferred to Cincinnati, the Zoo should plan to bring back Nile Hippos. Tucker was hugely popular, and is greatly missed by regulars.  This is a huge space, and logistically situated.  Again, a new build that would require a large amount of funding, but would sit in my second place slot for such an endeavor, behind a new build at Triple Grotto.  The later only because of the focal eyesore it's vacancy will be, and of course I want to see the return if Chimpanzees.  That said, losing Our Chimpanzees is going to sting for some time, so hard to imagine replacements right now.  So, if Orangutans can keep Triple Grotto still alive when they move to the Chimpanzees Pachyderm enclosures, Hippo is in my top spot I think.  I really wish there could be simultaneous large scale funding for Hippo, Mountain Lion, and Triple Grotto.  In my opinion all important in their own right.  On the Hippo front, Tucker sired offspring Fritz, who will be four this August. It seems that he will need to be rehomed at some point, as the enclosure in Cincinnati will become too crowded with four adult Hippos.   I don't know if we own Fritz, but acquiring him should be looked into.  I have maintained he would be an instant draw, to Hippo fans, to Tucker fans, and to Cincinnati Hippo lovers who are attached to him, and would possibly come here to see him.  In my opinion, the lasting draw of a Nile Hippo would far out weigh that of Pandas.  

I'm only on board with Pandas, if using the Lion House is NOT involved.  And if the lease is temporary, two/three years tops. Panda expenses will not be sustainable for reported ten years. And any enclosure built for them can later be used for a Black Bears upgrade.

The area shown of J and K, is the most recently former Pygmy Hippo (J) and current Black Rhino (K).  The former Hippo area when it sits across from a vacant Cat Yard B is sad, and creates an empty, ghost town feel.  Doesn't help that they partially dismantled the Hippo yard, and several times floated random plants in the pool.  So, let's talk about Pygmy Hippo first.  When we first got Akobi, allegedly we were to get a female as well.  Maybe that was just a rumor.  Reality happened and Akobi was moved to Houston for future breeding.  I was told SF was his transitional home.  I have also been told that this enclosure is too small for a breeding pair, and that there are possibly issues with the indoor pool, size and/or temperature needs.  If the later is an accurate issue, and if it can be fixed, it should be.  That said, it is seemingly still part of the Zoo's plan to breed the adjacent Black Rhino, which would require expanding into the former Hippo area.  That said, where on the Zoo to-do list that falls, who knows. Meanwhile, the Hippo vacancy was a year and a half ago. Could we not have gotten another Pygmy Hippo in transition?  Or another water using species like Capybara, who I've wanted to see brought back to the Puente.  If that happened, and the Rhino expansion was put into motion, coinciding with the departure of a Pygmy Hippo to it's intended permanent home, the Capy's could then move to Puente.

All I know is that area needs life.  Someone occupying J and a Tiger Species in Cat Yard B, should be high on the Zoo's to-do list.  The later would of course require the Zoo to let go of the current Panda Plan.  Abandon altogether or just for now, keeping Our Historic Lion House for Lions and another Big Cat species, and wait for years in future when a build along side Grizzly's is fundable, and Our Zoo is hopefully stable and thriving.

The area in the photo above, shows L/M x2 shows L as two current Snow Leopards, and M as adjacent space that could include two future expansions, re-routing path (yellow).  Current Pudu and Tortoise enclosures untouched.  

That said, I changed my mind since originally writing this.  This was a secondary thought, because the Snow Leopard expansion that happened six years ago, had a phase two that seemed like it would never happen. Phase two supposedly included a skytrail across the path into the south east side of South Gate, which I liked (viewable in newer photo above). When I walked by last week, I couldn't visualize expanding both current enclosures in the way I presented above. It worked space-wise but not aesthetically.   I realized I still want the phase two idea for the Snows, and the cost and chaos would be less if the Zoo followed through with that idea.  It would be nice to see them have more space. Again, another idea that would require a good amount of future funding. The expansion that was done several years ago, is a ridiculous topical design with limited floor space. Creating this scenario would give both Snows expanded space as one could have access to both L enclosures, and one to the trail and expansion (M), on a rotating basis.

Going to end this post here, and continue in the next post, which I already done and linked below.  The blogger started typing slow, and not sure if that will affect reading scroll.  Plus, this is long already.  Assuming those who stuck with it this far will need a break.  

Next/Related Posts:

*Continuation Of... - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/continuation-of-what-i-think-our-zoo.html

*MADagascar Disaster Needs Help - What I Think It Needs aka What I'd Like To See #3

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/madagascar-disaster-needs-help-what-i.html

Older/Related Post: 

*What I Think Our Zoo Needs - Part One

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/02/what-i-think-our-zoo-needs-part-one.html

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